International Driving Permit?

delorean_2

I've to apply for an International Driving permit, but wondered where is best to get one from?

The AA offer one for £5.50 + £2 'processing fee'.
RAC offer it for £5.50
Green Flag same at £5.50

How come the AA charges an extra £2???

Is there anywhere else I can get an IDP cheaper? The Post Office perhaps?

Or is £5.50 the actual authentic fee?

Can I post date it so it starts say, November 1st 2006? How long do they usually take to arrive? Are drivers with points refused IDP's?

Thanks for any advice you may give.

dubburke

Why do you need one? have i messed up and i need one, i travel on Sunday (hiring a car in Rome)

waster_2

dubburke wrote:

Why do you need one? have i messed up and i need one, i travel on Sunday (hiring a car in Rome)

Your UK licence covers you in most countries including all of Europe, the USA, etc.

delorean_2

I'm moving to Canada in October and it says an IDP is recommended. Best to be safe than sorry for the sake of a fiver I think!

waster_2

delorean wrote:

I'm moving to Canada in October and it says an IDP is recommended. Best to be safe than sorry for the sake of a fiver I think!

You can drive on your UK licence for up to 12 months and then you will have had to pass your Canadian test to continue driving.

p3gg

To save on processing fees you can get your IDP in person from one of 70-odd Post Office branches across the country or either of the two remaining AA shops (Dover Eastern Docks or Eurotunnel temrinal at Folkestone). The list of places where you can apply in person is here:

http://www.theaa.com/getaway/idp/motidp002.html

The permit is then issued immediately, so it saves you time as well as money (assuming you don't have to travel miles to apply). The permit is valid for twelve months before it has to be renewed.

Hope this helps.

p3gg

delorean_2

Can i post date the permit? I need it to start around November 1st-ish. When could be the latest I could apply?

Green Flag and RAC do not carry the £2 'fee' but I was wondering if it's cheaper than £5.50 anywhere else? How much do the Post Office charge?

Thanks for the post p3gg, very useful ta.